Behind-the-Scenes Revelations: Star Trek's Strange New Worlds Showrunner Teases Captain Kirk & His Brother

Lt. James T. Kirk, portrayed by Paul Wesley, will be reunited with his older brother, Lt. George Samuel Kirk, played by Dan Jeannotte, in season 2 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Wesley will reprise his role as Kirk in episode 3 of the season, titled "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow." However, there may be some time travel involved, as it appears to be a version of Captain Kirk who encounters Lt. La'an Noonien-Singh, portrayed by Christina Chong, in the episode instead of the younger Lt. Kirk who serves on the USS Farragut in the 2259 timeframe of Strange New Worlds.

During an interview with StarTrek.com, co-showrunners Henry Alonso Myers and Akiva Goldsman discussed the likelihood of James and Sam Kirk meeting when Jim joins the USS Enterprise in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2. Myers confirms that the reunion will indeed take place and hints at the relationship between the two brothers. Here is his statement:

Sam & James T. Kirk Together Didn't Happen In Star Trek: The Original Series

when we observe them, we witness their togetherness. This delves into the essence of our endeavor to incorporate elements from the past. Our knowledge about them remains limited to a few brief details mentioned in certain books. Consequently, we desired to pause and explore their relationship further. What is the nature of their connection? How does it feel to be linked to both individuals? When Akiva crafted the pilot, he introduced the concept of "Sam Kirk" and posed it as a challenge for anyone willing to embrace it. This allowed us to uncover opportunities to delve deeper into their dynamic and comprehend the significance of this bond. While the depth of their relationship may not have been a concern in The Original Series, the revelation adds an exciting dimension to the show.

In the Star Trek: The Original Series episode "Operation - Annihilate!", Sam Kirk appeared posthumously, portrayed by William Shatner with a fake mustache. However, Sam's character wasn't fully developed at the time. The premiere episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds revealed a surprising twist: Lieutenant Sam Kirk had actually served on the Enterprise long before James took command as Captain. In this new series, Sam is a xenobiologist and a close friend of Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount). Notably, Sam retains his iconic mustache.

In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2, viewers can expect exciting firsts, including the initial encounters between James T. Kirk, Lt. Spock, and Ensign Nyota Uhura. Additionally, if Jim visits Sickbay, he may meet Nurse Christine Chapel and Dr. Joseph M'Benga, both of whom will serve alongside Kirk when he becomes the captain of the Enterprise. The season will also feature the intriguing on-screen dynamic between Sam and Jim Kirk, marking a never-before-seen event for fans. Experience all this and more by streaming Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 on Paramount+ every Thursday.

Source: StarTrek.com